Air Suspension Valve Block

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the air suspension valve block on a 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, which controls air distribution to each air spring.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Air suspension valve block assembly × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Valve block mounting hardware kit × 1 — Use OEM specification if damaged
• Air line O-rings and seals × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical connector seal × 1 — Use OEM specification if damaged

Preparation

1. Connect diagnostic tool and record all current suspension system fault codes and sensor readings
2. Using the diagnostic tool, activate 'Service Mode' for air suspension to lower vehicle to minimum ride height
3. Place vehicle on lift and raise to working height, ensuring all four wheels are off the ground
4. Follow Rivian HV safety procedures: disable 12V battery, wait 5 minutes, verify HV system de-energization
5. Using diagnostic tool, command air suspension system to vent all air springs completely
6. Remove rear driver-side wheel well liner access panel using trim tools and T25 Torx bits
7. Photograph electrical connector orientation and air line routing for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the valve block location
   The air suspension valve block is mounted in the rear driver-side frame rail area, behind the wheel well. Remove the protective cover by releasing four T30 Torx fasteners. The valve block will be visible with multiple air lines and an electrical connector attached. Clean the area around the valve block to prevent contamination during service.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the valve block electrical connector with gray locking tab. Press the red secondary lock tab toward the connector body, then squeeze the primary release tabs while pulling the connector straight away from the valve block. Do not pull on wires. Secure the connector away from the work area to prevent damage.
3. 3

   Label and disconnect air supply line
   Identify the main air supply line (largest diameter line, typically from the air compressor). Using the appropriate air line disconnect tool, press the collet release ring while pulling the line straight out from the valve block port. You should hear residual pressure release if system was not fully vented. Label this line with tape marked 'SUPPLY' for reassembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect individual air spring lines
   Disconnect the four air spring lines from the valve block, one at a time. These are typically color-coded or marked: LF (left front), RF (right front), LR (left rear), RR (right rear). Use the air line disconnect tool for each connection. Label each line clearly as it is removed. Inspect each line end for damage or contamination.
5. 5

   Disconnect exhaust vent line
   Locate the exhaust vent line, which routes to a filtered vent typically near the frame rail. Disconnect this line using the disconnect tool and label it 'EXHAUST' for proper reconnection.
6. 6

   Remove valve block mounting fasteners
   The valve block is secured to a mounting bracket with three 10mm bolts. Support the valve block with one hand while removing the mounting bolts. Note the orientation of the valve block and any alignment features on the mounting bracket for proper reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove valve block assembly
   Carefully remove the valve block from its mounting location, being mindful of any remaining air line stubs or wiring that may be routed nearby. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage or corrosion. Check the mounting rubber isolators for deterioration and replace if necessary.
8. 8

   Prepare new valve block
   Unpack the new valve block assembly and verify it matches the original unit in port configuration and electrical connector type. Install new O-rings on all air line ports, lightly lubricating them with clean brake fluid or specified silicone lubricant. Ensure all port caps or plugs are removed from the new unit.
9. 9

   Install new valve block
   Position the new valve block onto the mounting bracket, aligning it with the same orientation as the original. Ensure any locating pins or alignment features are properly engaged. Install the three 10mm mounting bolts and tighten in a crossing pattern to ensure even seating. Tighten securely but do not over-torque as the housing is aluminum.
10. 10

    Reconnect air lines
    Reconnect each air line to its corresponding port on the new valve block, starting with the main supply line, then the four air spring lines, and finally the exhaust line. Push each line firmly into its port until you hear and feel a distinct click indicating the collet has engaged. Verify each connection by gently pulling on the line.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align and connect the electrical connector to the valve block, ensuring the connector is fully seated. You should hear a click when the primary lock engages. Push the red secondary lock tab back to its locked position. Verify the connection is secure by gently tugging on the connector body.
12. 12

    Reinstall protective covers
    Reinstall the valve block protective cover and secure with the four T30 Torx fasteners. Ensure no air lines are pinched or kinked. Reinstall the wheel well liner access panel and any other removed trim pieces.
13. 13

    System initialization and testing
    Reconnect the 12V battery and follow Rivian procedures to re-enable the HV system. Using the diagnostic tool, clear any stored fault codes related to the air suspension system. Perform the air suspension system initialization procedure, which will calibrate the new valve block and verify all solenoids and sensors.
14. 14

    Leak test and functional verification
    Command the air suspension system to fill all air springs to normal ride height using the diagnostic tool. Listen for air leaks at each connection point on the valve block. The system should pressurize within 2-3 minutes. Use soapy water solution on connections if audible leaks are not apparent. Verify no bubbles form at any connection.

Reassembly

1. All air line connections must click positively into place and be verified with a pull test
2. Verify electrical connector secondary lock is fully engaged to prevent water intrusion
3. Ensure wheel well liner and protective covers are properly secured to prevent road debris damage
4. Double-check that no air lines are kinked, pinched, or routed where they could contact moving suspension components

Verification

• Use diagnostic tool to verify no active fault codes in the air suspension system
• Cycle the air suspension through all ride height settings (Entry, Normal, Off-Road if equipped) and verify smooth operation
• Verify all four corner height sensors are reading within specification and tracking properly
• Perform a pressure hold test: raise vehicle to maximum height, let system stabilize for 5 minutes, and verify less than 5mm drop at any corner
• Test drive the vehicle at various speeds and verify normal suspension operation with no warning lights
• Verify compressor run time is normal (should cycle off within 3-4 minutes of reaching target height)
• Check that valve block solenoid operation is audible during height changes, confirming proper valve cycling

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle